It is shaping up to be a pivotal year for New York state’s insurance industry, with the establishment of a single definition of windstorm in homeowners policies on the horizon.
This is a monumental step forward, not just for insurance professionals, but for homeowners across the Empire State. However, this progress can only be solidified by the collective action of insurance agents across the state urging Gov. Kathy Hochul to sign A.2866/S.4199 into law.
Why the windstorm bill matters
As an insurance agent, you know the complexities of explaining policy details to clients—especially when those details are inconsistent or unclear. Currently, there are over 100 different definitions of windstorm approved by the New York State Department of Financial Services. This creates a patchwork of policies that can lead to confusion, disputes and significant financial risk for homeowners.
A standardized definition of windstorm would make it easier for you to guide your clients and ensure that everyone has a better understanding of their coverage. It also would help to align New York with neighboring states like New Jersey and Connecticut, fostering a more predictable and fair insurance landscape.
The windstorm bill is a direct response to the need for clarity and uniformity in homeowners insurance policies.
The power of grassroots advocacy
For the first time, the windstorm bill passed both houses of the state Legislature. However, this passage didn’t happen by chance. It was the result of persistent and strategic advocacy by PIANY and its members. By engaging with legislators, participating in letter-writing campaigns and educating local senators and members of the Assembly on the bill’s benefits, PIANY was able to secure a remarkable increase in co-sponsors and build the momentum needed to pass this legislation.
Our work isn’t finished. Now is the time for every insurance agent and broker in New York state to come together and ensure that this bill becomes law. Grassroots advocacy has proven to be a powerful tool—now, it’s up to you to keep that momentum going.
How you can take action
Contact Gov. Hochul. A personal message from you can be the difference between a bill that sits on a desk and a bill that becomes law. Let the governor know how important this legislation is for your clients and the future of homeowners insurance in New York state. PIANY has made it easy. Just click this link and you can send a letter to the governor in under a minute!
Encourage your colleagues. Spread the word among your fellow agents and brokers. The more unified our voice, the stronger our influence. Share PIANY’s message on social media, in emails and through your professional networks.
Stay engaged. Follow PIANY’s updates and continue participating in advocacy efforts. Whether through the District Office Visit Program, the PIANY Agents Advocacy Coalition or simply staying informed: Your ongoing involvement is crucial.
The future depends on you
This windstorm bill represents more than just a change in policy definitions—it’s a step toward a more transparent, equitable insurance industry. By standardizing windstorm definitions, we can reduce disputes, simplify claims processes and build stronger relationships with our clients.
Gov. Hochul needs to hear from you—insurance professionals who understand the real-world impact of this legislation.
Let’s make this happen—contact Gov. Hochul today.
Bradford J. Lachut, Esq.
Bradford J. Lachut, Esq., joined PIA as government affairs counsel for the Government & Industry Affairs Department in 2012 and then, after a four-month leave, he returned to the association in 2018 as director of government & industry affairs responsible for all legal, government relations and insurance industry liaison programs for the five state associations. Prior to PIA, Brad worked as an attorney for Steven J. Baum PC, in Amherst, and as an associate attorney for the law office of James Morris in Buffalo. He also spent time serving as senior manager of government affairs as the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, a chamber of commerce serving the Buffalo, N.Y., region, his hometown. He received his juris doctorate from Buffalo Law School and his Bachelor of Science degree in Government and Politics from Utica College, Utica, N.Y. Brad is an active Mason and Shriner.
